Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s deputy foreign minister, in an interview with the BBC:

•? ?“The ball is now in the Americans’ court. If they prove they are sincere, I am confident we can move toward an agreement.”

•? ?“We are prepared to discuss enrichment and other issues related to our program, provided they are willing to discuss sanctions.”

•? ?“A confrontation with the United States would be traumatic and bad for everyone. Not only Iran would suffer — all parties would, especially those who initiate an attack.”